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What Do You Know About Oral Thrush?

What is oral thrush?

There really is no way to sugarcoat this – oral thrush is when a yeast infection develops inside your mouth. Alternate names are oral candidiasis and oropharyngeal candidiasis. It surprisingly occurs most often in babies and toddlers. Fortunately, the infection is typically mild and rarely causes serious problems.

What are the other symptoms of oral thrush?

It’s important to note that no symptoms may be present in early stages, but as the infection gets worse, one may experience:

  • White or yellowish bumps on the tongue, insides of the cheeks, tonsils, gums, and/or lips
  • Soreness or burning in the mouth
  • Bleeding if the bumps are scraped or irritated
  • Dry, cracked skin at the corners of your mouth
  • A cotton-like sensation in your mouth
  • A loss of taste or a bad taste in your mouth
  • Difficulty swallowing

What causes oral thrush in your mouth?

Oral thrush is caused by an overgrowth of a fungus called Candida albicans. Note, that this is “overgrowth”, as it is normal for a small amount to live in your mouth without any issues. It’s when your immune system is compromised, that the fungus can grow out of control.

It is also possible to develop an overgrowth if you take certain medications that reduce the amount of beneficial organisms in your body, such as antibiotics.

People who suffer from cancer and are getting radiation or chemotherapy treatments can also be more susceptible to oral thrush. This is because these treatments can kill off healthy cells.

Other conditions that can weaken your immune system, such as leukemia, HIV, and diabetes can also increase the chances of developing oral thrush.

 How is oral thrush diagnosed?

Your doctor or dentist may be able to diagnose it just by looking in your mouth. In some cases, your doctor may take a biopsy.

How is oral thrush treated?

Your doctor may prescribe one of more medications such as fluconazole, clotrimazole, itraconazole, amphoteric B. Treatment usually takes a couple of weeks.

It’s so important to practice good oral hygiene during your treatment:

  • Brush your teeth with a soft toothbrush
  • Avoid scraping the bumps in your mouth caused by the oral thrush
  • Replace your toothbrush after the treatment for your oral thrush has concluded
  • Avoid mouthwash, unless instructed by your doctor

Concerned you have oral thrush? Make an appointment with your health professional today! Located in the Surrey, BC area? Come see us at Healthy Smiles Family Dentistry. Give us a call at to book your appointment: 604-593-8201.

 

How Harmful is Vaping for Your Health?

Vaping and e-cigs have gained a lot of popularity over the past decade, with many people thinking it is harmless compared to smoking regular cigarettes.

The fact of the matter is this – when it comes to any type of smoke inhalation, it goes without saying, you should not be doing it if you value your health.

When it comes to your health, vaping can lead to:

  • Inflamed gums (redness, tenderness & swelling)
  • Excess bacteria in your mouth that can lead to gum disease, decay, and cavities
  • Dry mouth and irritation of the mouth
  • Throat irritation
  • DNA damage (death of your cells)
  • Bad breath
  • Periodontal disease
  • Tooth and bone loss

As vaping is quite new, more research is needed to know further ways in which it can negatively affect you. That said, we’d say this is plenty of info to say no to this terrible habit.

It’s never too late to quit. Health is your greatest wealth!

For family or cosmetic dentistry in the Surrey area, please visit us at Healthy Smiles Family Dentistry! Call us today: 604-593-8201.

 

What are Receding Gums?

When the margin of the gum tissue around your teeth starts to wear away or pull back, exposing more of the tooth, or even the root of the tooth. Disease-causing bacteria can then build up between your gums and teeth.

What are the Symptoms of Receding Gums?

  • Exposed roots causing discomfort and sensitivity
  • Loose teeth
  • Teeth appear longer than normal

What are the Causes of Receding Gums?

  • Genetics
  • Poor dental care and/or brushing too hard
  • Periodontal diseases
  • Smoking, vaping, chewing tobacco, hookah
  • Changes in hormones
  • Having a misaligned bite
  • Crooked teeth
  • Clenching your teeth
  • Grinding your teeth

What Happens if this is NOT Treated?

If you leave this problem untreated, your tissue, teeth, and bone structure can be affected to the point you could lose your teeth. It occurs gradually, so people often don’t even realize it’s happening until they are told by their dentist or dental hygienist.

Can this be Treated?

It is absolutely necessary to have a deep cleaning at your dental office to remove tartar and plaque, as well as to smooth over the exposed root area. This makes it harder for bacteria to attach itself. You may also be prescribed antibiotics to kill off any remaining bacteria.

What if the Problem is Too Far Gone?

If you have excessive loss of bone and deep pockets, you may need to have gum surgery.

How Can I Try My Best to Prevent this from Happening?

  • Take great care of your health
  • Quit smoking
  • Get regular dental care
  • Always monitor your mouth for changes

Located in the Surrey area? Book an appointment at Healthy Smiles Family Dentistry today and keep your mouth in top condition! Call us: 604-593-8201.

 

Do You Know What Month it is?

October is National Dental Hygiene Month! Thirty-one days of the calendar year to place a special emphasis on the importance of oral health.

Oral health isn’t just brushing your teeth. It’s brushing them properly and thoroughly twice a day for at least two minutes, flossing, fresh breath, and healthy pink gums. Oh, and don’t forget the regular checkups and professional cleanings every six months. 

Read more about preventing bad breath, ways a healthy smile can enrich your life, and why you should never go to bed without brushing your teeth.

And remember, the way you take care of your mouth affects your overall health too.  For example, if you have an infected tooth, that infection can spread to your neck, jaw, sinuses, and possibly even your brain.Good dental health can never be underestimated.

You only get one set of teeth – take care of them!

Snap a picture of your healthy smile and upload to social media with the hashtag #DentalHygieneMonth.

If you are located in the Surrey, BC area, we would love to have you as a patient at our dental clinic. Call us at Healthy Smiles Family Dentistry today: 604-593-8201.

Back to School Dental Reminders

After spending a couple of months on summer break, it can be hard for kids to adjust to the regular school year routine. This includes ensuring that they remember to brush their teeth before they head out the door. Mornings can be so rushed, that it can be easy to forget, therefore, it is great to get into the habit of brushing at the same time each day. Note: studies show that when we brush before we eat, the mouth’s pH will not dip low enough to form cavities.

In addition to brushing, what are some other things to take note of?

  • Be sure kids know how to floss and that they do so when they brush – individual flossers are easy to use and less intimidating than a regular roll of dental floss
  • Pack healthy lunches with fruits and vegetables – avoid processed foods and sugary treats that can lead to decay
  • Minimize starchy foods like pretzels and crackers which can coat the teeth and become a breeding ground for bacteria
  • Water is a much better choice than juice or soda
  • Ensure all kids participating in contact sports have proper-fitting mouthguards
  • Don’t assume that your child’s teeth are healthy just because they don’t complain about pain, as this does not guarantee that they are cavity-free
  • Kids who have braces need to be extra diligent with their oral hygiene, as to be sure to properly clean all of the nooks and crannies
  • Travel toothbrushes are handy for kids to store in their bags for brushing after lunch

    Looking for a family dentist in the Surrey area? We would love to have you at Healthy Smiles Family Dentistry! Call us today at 604-593-8201.

 

Should You Brush Your Teeth with Baking Soda?

Baking soda has endless uses. If you aren’t sure as to what these are, Google can provide you with this info. That said, it is one of the ingredients often advertised on toothpaste packages.

Where is can become an issue is if you use baking soda on it’s own, straight from the box. There are many “home remedy” posts online that actually encourage people to do this because it is a more “natural” product.

You have to be careful though because too much baking soda can actually end up damaging your tooth enamel. This is because it is made up of a chemical compound that makes it mildly abrasive, hence, why you do not want to overuse it. That is how it has the ability to remove lighter surface stains and whiten your teeth.

It is also important to note that baking soda obviously doesn’t have fluoride in it like toothpaste does, which can help protect your teeth against cavities. Baking soda can also wear down the glue that you may use for orthodontic purposes, including permanent retainers.

You’re best bet is to consult with your dentist about professional teeth whitening solutions, and to ask them any questions you may have about the use of baking soda. They will be sure to point you in the right direction and give you peace of mind at the same time. You don’t want to mess with the health of your teeth after all!

Looking for a family dentist in the Surrey area? Call us at Healthy Smiles Family Dentistry: 604-593-8201

Summer is Upon Us! Brush Up on these Summer Dental Tips!

Summer…most people’s favorite time of year! You may be more in “vacation-mode”, but there is never a time for your teeth to be, even if you are out in the wilderness on a camping adventure.

Always keep these summer dental tips top of mind for you and your family:

  • Most people do not drink enough water, even though we are well aware that we need to drink plenty of it! It is especially important when you are out in the heat. When it comes to your teeth, water helps wash out the plaque-causing bacteria. It helps prevent bad breath too! DRINK WATER! STAY HYDRATED!
  • Choose water over beverages that are drowning in sugar such as energy drinks, juices, and sodas. If you are going to drink juice, it’s a great idea to dilute it. Rinse with water after drinking anything acidic to protect your enamel.
  • With summer comes more ice. Don’t chew on it! That risks damaging your teeth and wearing down your irreplaceable enamel.
  • Brush and floss no matter where you are or what time of day it is. Even if you are out in the forest, or if you are traveling until the wee hours of the night, brush your teeth before you hit the sack. Buy a bag of individual dental flossers at your local drugstore or grocery store to take with you, as they are super convenient and easy to use. Something stuck in your teeth? Use a flosser instead of a toothpick. Safer for your mouth and more effective!
  • Keep your toothbrush dry. A wet toothbrush = harbouring grounds for bacteria. Need we say more?!

These dental tips seem simple enough, but somehow they are so easy to forget in the moment.

Wishing you all a safe, healthy, and amazing summer!

The Staff at Healthy Smiles Family Dentistry – Dental Clinic in Surrey, BC

Everything You Need to Know About Cold Sores

For those of you who are fortunate enough to not have cold sores, chances are good you have seen one on someone else, as they are quite common. If you aren’t exactly sure what they are or what causes them, we can fill you in!

A cold sore is also known as a “fever blister”. Sounds painful, right? They are found on or near the mouth, caused by infection with the herpes simplex virus.

When people hear the word “herpes”, they usually think “sexually transmitted disease”. Cold sores are caused from virus type HSV-1, while genital herpes is caused by HSV-2. That said, HSV-1 can also cause genital sores and blisters.

It’s quite shocking, but according to the World Health Organization, 3.7 billion people under age 50 have herpes simplex virus type 1. That’s 67 percent of the global population in that age bracket! Although they can be embarrassing, and take a ding out of your self-confidence, just remember that you are not alone.

So, it goes without saying that they are highly contagious and remain in this state until they are completely healed. You risk transferring it even if someone else touches a surface that you have touched if your hands were not clean.

How Can You Minimize the Risk of Spreading Your Cold Sore Virus to Others?

  • Always wash your hands with soap and avoid touching the sores (unless you are applying cream – which of course you would wash your hands after)
  • Don’t share creams, cosmetics, other toiletry items, cutlery, straws, glasses, and the like
  • Avoid kissing and oral sex until sores are completely healed
  • Be extra careful when you are near newborn babies, pregnant women, or anyone with a fragile immune system
  • Use SPF to help prevent cold sores that may be triggered by the sun

It is also extremely important to note that you could also transfer this virus to your eyes. Just another reason why it is crucial to always have clean hands…especially if you have contact lenses.

How do you know that one may be coming on?

You may feel a tingling, burning or itching sensation.

How long do cold sores last?

In most cases, they clear up within 7 to 10 days.

Is there a way to speed up the healing process?

You will be able to find anti-viral creams at your local drugstore without a prescription that may help with healing. They should, however, be applied as soon as you feel a cold sore coming on to be most effective.

Should I reschedule my dental visit if I have an active cold sore?

To be extra precautious so that the virus doesn’t spread to other parts of your face or to a member of the dental team, it is in everyone’s best interest for you to reschedule your dental visit. Just be sure to let your dental clinic know as soon as you feel the cold sore coming on and not last minute, just before your appointment.

What about work and school?

You can still attend work and school when you have a cold sore. Remember, they are nothing to be ashamed of. You didn’t go out of your way to contract one.

Looking for a dental clinic in the Surrey area? We would love to have you and your family as new patients at Healthy Smiles Family Dentistry! Give us a call to book an appointment today!

The Truth About Veneers

Considering veneers? This post is for YOU!

Veneers are permanent, thin shells (mostly made of porcelain) that adhere to the surface of your teeth. And because they are permanent, it is that much more important to be well informed before you take the plunge and get them. Not only that, but they are a big investment as well.

People often think they are only for aesthetic purposes, giving people that “celebrity-looking” smile. However, they are also a good solution for chipped, misaligned, broken, and damaged teeth.

You may have also heard that the procedure is very painful, but you will be administered a local anaesthetic. Yes, you may experience some soreness the next day, as with any type of procedure, but it can usually be eased with over-the-counter medication. Plus, it is only short-term.

Your teeth may need to be slightly reshaped before the procedure, but if you have heard they need to be severely filed down, please note that is an exaggeration. Your dentist is not going to want to cause unnecessary damage to your enamel.

Veneers are completely customized based on your teeth and the look you want. You probably have noticed that some people’s teeth seem “too white” – this is likely because they have veneers. The golden rule is to not have your teeth whiter than the whites of your eyes, so that they do not appear fake or unnatural looking.

Lastly, you still have to follow your regular dental hygiene routine, of course. This will keep your veneers clean, free of debris, and help prevent them from discoloring.

Looking for porcelain veneers in Surrey? Call us at Healthy Smiles Family Dentistry: 604-593-8201.

 

How Much Do You Know About Canker Sores?

When it comes to your mouth, no one wants to think of sores, but it is good to always be aware if you feel something abnormal.

So let’s start with…

What are canker sores?

  • Canker sores are shallow sores shaped like craters (ulcers) on the inside of your lip or cheek, or on your tongue.
  • They have a red border with a white or yellowish center.
  • They have the potential of being quite painful, and may even make it hard for you to eat or talk. Ouch!
  • You can develop more than one canker sore at a time.
  • Canker sores are fortunately not spread to other people.
  • Odds are higher for young adults and women to get them, but anyone can get canker sores.
  • Some people may be more prone than others, finding that they get them on a more regular basis.
  • Genetics seem to play a role in whether or not you will get them.
  • Most will not leave a scar – this is why it is even more important to not pick at them.

What are the symptoms of canker sores?

  • You will likely feel a tingling or burning feeling.
  • They may be painful and/or swollen.

How long do canker sores last?

It depends on the canker sore. Sores that are mild may heal in one to three weeks. Sores that are more serious sores may take up to six weeks! They will hurt, on average, for seven to ten days.

Most of the time, it is not known exactly why someone gets a canker sore, but here are some possible explanations:

  • Lack of sleep
  • Allergies
  • Stress
  • Biting your mouth / lip.
  • Irritation from wire braces
  • Lack of vitamins and minerals
  • Acidic food and drink

How do you treat canker sores?

  • Drink a lot of water.
  • Rinse with salt water.
  • Avoid coffee, acidic, spicy, salty, and citrus foods.
  • Eat soft and bland foods.
  • Avoid touching the sore with your toothbrush bristles.
  • Use over-the-counter products such as Oragel or Anbesol.
  • Take pain relievers such as Advil or Aleve.
  • Ask your pharmacist what would be most suitable for children.

It is always a good idea to visit your dentist if you feel something out of the ordinary in your mouth. They will be able to do a physical checkup and diagnose the problem. It is best to never just “assume” it is a canker sore, when it could be something more serious.

Looking for a family dental clinic in the Surrey area? We would love to have you at Healthy Smiles Family Dentistry! Give us a call to book an appointment today!

 

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Surrey, BC V3W 3M5